I am predicting 2012 will be a banner year for both quanity and quality for Mille Lacs Smallies. Late last fall a near state record smallmouth bass was caught...just 2 oz shy of the record of 8 pounds.

With early ice out March 25, and a warm spring so far..... I predict the bass will be in the spawn mode when the season opens. Typically the spawn will last the entire month of June.

Here's a tip...get a good pair of polarized sunglasses, some jerk baits, some creature baits and a hand full of tube jigs.

Probably the most important item...spool some fresh line on the reels...

Don't be one of those anglers that tell a story how a huge bass broke your line.

Instead be a angler that tells a story of how you landed that trophy bass.

Good luck this season and remember "If you dont chase em, you will never catch em"

Jim